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About the Detroit auto show

The Nissan Resonance crossover concept made its global debut on Tuesday at the Detroit auto show. The concept was created by Nissan Design America in San Diego under the direction of Shiro Nakamura, senior vice president and chief creative officer of Nissan. It shared the stage with the 2014 Nissan Versa Note.

Hypothetically, the Resonance would house a 2.5-liter engine with an electric motor and two-clutch hybrid technology. Output for the four-wheel-drive concept was not revealed.

The Resonance previews the next Murano crossover, albeit with a lot more flair than the production car will probably have. Nissan says the designers worked to express “aerodynamic feel that was lightweight and protective.” The front features boomerang-shaped headlights while the roof has a “floating” design created by the use of steeply raked A-pillars, a large glass panel and unique D-pillar design. The exterior color of Flare orange is accented by the 22-inch satin chrome wheels.

Inside, Nissan said they wanted to emulate what the future of first-class space travel might be like. Nissan says the Resonance interior is “welcoming yet exclusive, and high-tech yet premium,” whatever that might mean. The center console offers access to entertainment and communication functions, which is graphically layered to give a holographic experience. Must have been all that space-travel talk. An open glass roof allows passengers to view the sky, trees and possibly stars.

“Resonance is meant to be provocative, energetic and engaging -- even polarizing,” said Francois Bancon, Nissan division general manager. “Its edgy yet sophisticated design, combined with an environmentally sensitive powertrain and intelligent utility, provides a clear, exciting view into the future of crossover innovation.”

The annual North American International Auto Show, better known as the Detroit auto show, has maintained its place as a barometer for the entire industry. For 2013, NAIAS takes place Jan. 14-27 and will host concept cars, green cars and supercars from all the major automakers, including what’s expected to be a highlight this year: the new 2014 Chevroelt Corvette. Check out Autoweek’s complete coverage of the Detroit auto show here.